Racing 92 winger Vinaya Habosi, originally from Fiji, has been mandated to undergo a domestic violence awareness course following his arrest, according to a public prosecutor’s office near Paris.
Habosi was taken into custody on Sunday and released after approximately 24 hours. Police intervened at his residence during a dispute with his wife, which occurred in front of their infant child.
Witnesses reported that the 24-year-old allegedly pushed and struck his wife, claims that were later corroborated by the victim during her statement to authorities. Police indicated that Habosi exhibited “signs of drunkenness” at the time of the incident.
Public prosecutors in Nanterre have stated that Habosi must participate in a program aimed at raising awareness for the prevention of domestic violence and sexism, as part of an alternative to formal legal proceedings. They warned that legal action could still be initiated should he fail to comply with the directive.
On the field, Habosi contributed to Racing’s recent 33-20 victory over Clermont in the French Top 14, coming off the bench for ten minutes. The team is focused on their upcoming match against Bordeaux-Begles on Saturday.
Racing 92’s head coach, Stuart Lancaster, acknowledged the impact of the situation on the team during a press conference, stating that while it is challenging, the players have maintained their focus on rugby.
Habosi previously faced disciplinary action in February 2023 when he was released by Fijian Drua for a significant breach of the club’s code of conduct, following an assault complaint lodged with local authorities. He later joined Racing, where he has made an impression, including participating in five matches for Fiji during last year’s Rugby World Cup, where he started against England in the quarter-finals.